Pamidronate
Pamidronate is a bisphosphonate medication primarily used to treat conditions involving excessive bone breakdown, such as hypercalcemia of malignancy, bone metastases from cancer, and Paget's disease. It works by inhibiting osteoclasts, the cells responsible for bone resorption, thereby reducing bone pain, preventing fractures, and controlling calcium levels in the blood.
Pamidronate is an IV bisphosphonate used to treat cancer-related bone complications and bone disorders by inhibiting bone breakdown.
Key facts at a glance
- RxNorm
- 11473
- Generic
- Pamidronate
- Class
- unclassified
- Brands
- —
- Availability
- rx
- Lactation
- unknown
- Routes
- —
- Forms
- injection
- Regions
- US, EU, CN, JP
- Monitoring
- —
This page is for informational purposes only.
Do not use this information to diagnose yourself or to replace a physician's advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider before starting, stopping, or changing any medication. If you believe you are experiencing a medical emergency, call your local emergency number immediately.
Pamidronate is primarily used to treat hypercalcemia of malignancy (high blood calcium due to cancer), bone metastases and lesions from cancers (especially breast cancer and multiple myeloma), Paget's disease of bone, and sometimes severe osteoporosis. It helps reduce bone pain, prevent pathologic fractures, and control calcium levels.
Pamidronate is a potent inhibitor of osteoclast-mediated bone resorption. It binds to hydroxyapatite crystals in bone and is internalized by osteoclasts, where it inhibits their activity and promotes apoptosis. This reduces bone turnover and the release of calcium and other minerals from bone.
Pamidronate is administered as a slow intravenous infusion, typically over several hours. Common side effects include flu-like symptoms, fever, and hypocalcemia. Adequate hydration and monitoring of renal function are essential during treatment. Rare but serious risks include osteonecrosis of the jaw and atypical femoral fractures with prolonged use. Calcium and vitamin D supplementation may be recommended to help prevent hypocalcemia.
Official drug label
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This content is for general informational and educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the guidance of a qualified healthcare provider with any questions you have about a medical condition, and never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of something you read here.
If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your local emergency number or go to the nearest emergency department immediately.
Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial Team Last reviewed August 31, 2026. · Read our editorial policy